Core Subject Information

English, with its core skills of reading, writing, speaking and listening, is the foundation of learning. Students enjoy the subject for a number of reasons. The freedom granted to the exploration of classic and contemporary literature and literary non-fiction allows students unique opportunities to analyse and discover original interpretations of texts and concepts. Through creative writing, where students engage with their imagination, we explore different ways to construct sentences and shape the thoughts and feelings of readers. With the spoken language element of the course, students enjoy considering real-life scenarios and enjoy flexing their debating and discussion skills, sharing ideas and collaborating with their peers.

Students will use English in all aspects of their studies and working life, beyond GCSE. In addition students can study Humanities subjects, such as History and Geography, as well as Social Science subjects like Sociology, Psychology and Criminology. In addition, Performing Arts subjects link well to English as they encourage similar levels of creativity and flair.

English Literature is an exciting subject to study, in part, due to its focus on developing the thoughts and opinions that students form when reading texts. It is also engaging for students because they can fully immerse themselves in a whole novel or play, deepening the level of exploration that you might achieve with a short extract. Another aspect of the course that students enjoy is the focus on academic writing skills which encourages them to consider how to approach and present clear and developed arguments and evaluations of texts.

Students will use English Literature in subjects where analysis and evaluation are central skills. Courses such as Psychology, Sociology, Criminology, Drama and History.  Further studies in English Literature at degree level is also an option. Literature can also take you into the world of work, with jobs such as journalism, editing, publishing and university lecturing all possible occupations.

Mathematics is a subject that builds confidence, competence, and critical thinking skills that students can apply in both their academic journey and everyday life. Through engaging tasks and assessments, students develop the ability to apply mathematical concepts flexibly, helping them solve real-world problems and understand the importance of mathematics in modern society.

Students gain the ability to use and apply standard mathematical techniques, accurately recalling key facts, terminology, and definitions while interpreting notation correctly. They develop strong problem-solving skills by carrying out routine procedures and tackling multi-step problems with precision and efficiency.

Our curriculum is designed to enhance students’ ability to reason, interpret, and communicate mathematically. By the end of their studies, students will be able to make logical deductions, draw conclusions, and construct well-reasoned arguments. They will also develop the ability to assess the validity of arguments, interpret information accurately, and communicate complex mathematical ideas clearly.

Beyond the classroom, mathematics fosters strong analytical and problem-solving skills that are highly valuable for future careers and higher education. Students will learn how to translate real-world challenges into structured problem-solving processes, apply mathematical reasoning across different contexts, and make meaningful connections between various aspects of mathematics. These skills not only support academic success but also prepare students for careers in finance, engineering, technology, science, business, and many other fields.

Mathematics at Leigh Academy Bexley represents an opportunity for students to develop resilience, logical thinking, and lifelong skills that are widely respected and sought after in higher education and the job market. Whether students pursue mathematics-related careers or use their skills in everyday decision-making, the subject equips them with the tools they need to thrive in an increasingly data-driven world.

Mathematics is a versatile and essential subject that provides students with the logical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills needed for a wide range of future opportunities. Whether students choose to continue studying mathematics at a higher level or apply its principles in other disciplines, the skills gained from this course are highly transferable and valued across various industries.

At Leigh Academy Bexley, students can continue their mathematical journey by studying A Level Mathematics, which builds on the knowledge gained at GCSE and enhances students’ ability to work with complex concepts, data analysis, and problem-solving strategies.

Mathematics opens doors to a vast number of career paths and university courses. Many fields, such as engineering, computer science, finance, physics, medicine, architecture, business, and data science, rely heavily on mathematical skills. Additionally, sectors like law, social sciences, psychology, and even creative industries benefit from the logical reasoning and quantitative analysis developed through mathematical studies.

Beyond formal education, mathematics plays a critical role in everyday problem-solving, financial literacy, and decision-making, making it an essential skill for both professional and personal success. Whether students aspire to enter a STEM-related profession, a business environment, or any field requiring analytical thinking, mathematics provides a strong foundation for lifelong learning and career advancement.

Science is a practical subject that allows students to inquire and question the world in which they live through the specific disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics.  Science tries to explain the natural phenomena students see on a daily basis. Science has changed our lives, is key to the world’s future prosperity, and this course covers all the essential aspects of the knowledge, methods, processes and uses of science in the real world.

Science allows students to use their creativity and imagination to solve real life issues and apply their mathematical skills for scientific applications. 

Additionally, students are encouraged to recognise the power of rational explanation and develop a sense of excitement and curiosity about the natural world. They are encouraged to use their scientific knowledge to explain what occurs in the world, predicting how things will behave, and analysing the causes and consequences of this.

On completing this course students are equipped with the scientific knowledge required to understand the uses and implications of science, today and in the future. They therefore have a wide range of options for further study.  This course will allow students to access vocational and academic courses at KS5, including: BTEC Applied Science, International Baccalaureate Biology, International Baccalaureate Physics, and A Level Sciences. All of these courses allow you to study sciences at university and at a higher apprenticeship level. Science develops transferable skills that are highly regarded in all areas but could lead to scientific careers including: medicine, ecology, pharmaceuticals, engineering, carpentry, architecture, product design, management, finance, marketing and IT. 

Importantly, the study of science complements the analytical and thinking skills that students develop in taking arts based subjects like English Literature, History, Sociology and/or Geography.